Losing once this season against the same opponent, Primehomes made sure to reach the finals and setup a rematch with Alveo Sales, but this time for the biggest prize - the penultimate title.
A lot of guys stepped up for Primehomes but it was their frontcourt players who made huge impact.
Proving his efficiency, Jeff De Guzman had his best game of the season as he delivered a near triple-double performance with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists, and was rightfully crowned as the Finals MVP.
Eloy Bello buried six three-pointers to finish with 18 markers, while Ren Sy and Paolo Cuento contributed double-double performances; 11 points and 14 rebounds, and 14 points and 11 rebounds respectively, to help Primehomes. Season MVP Ruel Pelicano added 11 boards.
Despite a dismal shooting from the free throw line, still, it became Primehomes' key of winning the championship as their five charity shots created enough distance against Alveo Sales in the crucial stretch.
Alveo Sales caught fire from the get-go as they easily built a double-digit lead in the first quarter, 25-13. However, Primehomes found their rhythm in the latter half of the second period, rallying back with a 16-2 run to steal the advantage, 36-33. Unfortunately, a 6-2 answer by Alveo Sales helped the latter stay on top before the halftime break, 39-38.
Regaining momentum in the second half, a Bello triple to start off the third sparked Primehomes' offensive surge as they held a lead of as many as eight points before Alveo Sales cut it down to just one possession heading to the fourth, 57-54.
Primehomes even led by double figures in the halfway mark of the final canto, 75-64, but Alveo Sales refused to wave the white flag early as they stormed back to get to within a point with 1:23 remaining, 76-75. Attacking the rim aggressively, De Guzman and Cuento trooped to the foul line and converted four of their eight attempts, which were enough to seal their victory.
April Manuel led Alveo Sales, especially in the crucial period, as he scored 17 points, while JC Abarrientos and Mark Hequibal dropped 14 apiece. Titus Mendoza added 13 markers.
